Community Asthma Program (HARP)

Partnerships for Children

Description:

The Community Asthma Program (CAP) is a program that aims to improve children’s management of asthma who frequently use hospitals or are at risk of hospitalisation. The program provides free asthma education and support for children and families in their own home or community setting.

Rather than just focus on disease management the program also considers the social circumstances of the target group, for instance ethnicity, socioeconomic status, mental health and other family issues. A broad range of services have been coordinated to provide both health related and social support to families which assist in and contribute to the management of the asthma in their children.

Eligibility:

Young people with moderate to severe asthma and/or complex needs aged between 0 -18yrs and have had at least:

• One emergency admission for asthma in the past 12 months; or
• Any three emergency admissions within the last 12 months; or
• Are considered at risk of hospitalisation. 

Clients who meet the following criteria can be considered at risk of hospitalisation.

• Symptoms on most days; or
• Use of preventer medication; or
• Bronchodilator use at least three times per week; or
• Complex psychosocial needs that impact on the management of asthma

Indicative waiting time:

Approx. 2 months depending on priority.

Clients are prioritised using an eligibility criteria.

Referrals:

Referrals can be made by your GP, M&CHN, or you can self-refer.

Please call our liaison staff on 9345-5295